New and Noteworthy: Library Website Updates

This month, MCPL will be rolling out a number of important changes to its website, intended to improve the user experience. As with all transitions, we know there will be an adjustment period, but we hope that ultimately the upgraded mymcpl.org will offer better and smoother navigation for all patrons on all devices. Below are just a few of the changes that you can expect to see.

Improved accessibility for non-English speakers

A language translator widget will now be available at the top of each page to allow users to change the content of the page into one of 8 to 10 other languages besides English:

• Spanish

• Chinese (simplified)

• Chinese (traditional)

• Arabic

• Vietnamese

• German

• French

• Swahili

• Somali

• Hindi

More consistent navigation across devices

Currently, the website navigation on desktop display has significantly more options than the view on mobile or tablet devices. The new navigation at the top of the homepage will group many of the selections together so that desktop and mobile users have a consistent user experience. 

Current desktop navigation:

 New desktop navigation:

Current mobile and tablet navigation:

New mobile and tablet navigation:

You’ll notice that in this new structure, the Locations and Hours information will be present in the “Our Libraries” dropdown, along with the pages for the Culinary Kitchens, Midwest Genealogy Center, Square One Small Business Center, and The Story Center, as well as the Services and the About sections. Books, Movies, Music will nest within the Browse dropdown, along with Research and Learning, Programs, Blogs, Features, Kids, and Teens. The Events page will now be called “Programs” and will also be listed under the Browse dropdown.

Improved Access to the Catalog and Help

All website pages will now include a link to the online catalog, so you can always make your way to the Library’s collection to find books, movies, music, and other items available for checkout at the Library’s 34 branches.

As you navigate all of these changes, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a Library staff member with any questions or for assistance. Our goal is to make sure each and every patron is able to access the information and resources they need—whether that’s signing up for a program at your local branch, or finding your next great read. 

MCPL Web Team